Market Minute: Mushroom volume, quality great for promotions
Porcini, Oyster, Chanterelles, Morels, Matsutake, Enoki — What are they? They are the fleshy, spore-bearing bodies of a fungus simply known as mushrooms.
According to a recent study, the first mushroom on Earth grew between 715 and 810 million years ago. Edible mushrooms go far back in ancient times, dating 13,000 years ago — they were first cultivated in China.
Only white mushrooms were found in the produce department years ago; however, today’s mushroom category is made up of more varieties other than just white and brown mushrooms.
“I believe that the mushroom category is one that is seeing a lot of growth," said Vince Mastromauro, produce director for Sunset Foods in Highland Park, IL. "We carry a large line besides just white whole and sliced. Our best mover would be the Baby Bella mushroom. We also carry upscale mushrooms from a local grower in Chicago. Our upscale program consists of Blue Oyster, Black Oyster, Chestnut, Lion's Mane, King Trumpet and Maitake. They are some of the best eating mushrooms — almost like eating a piece of steak.”
The market on mushrooms is very good right now and the quality is excellent. Get together with your mushroom grower-supplier and plan a nice attractive advertising promotion featuring several varieties. Show off your mushroom display section to boost sales and impress customers.
Ron Pelger is a produce industry adviser and industry writer. He can be contacted at 775/843-2394 or by e-mail at [email protected].
